travel trends

For decades, Europe has been the default overseas destination for American travelers. But in 2026, a surprising shift is taking place as more Americans choose Japan over Europe, driven by favorable exchange rates, exceptional safety, standard-setting infrastructure, and a desire for unique cultural immersion.

Travel advisor growth in 2026 accelerates as professionals abandon solo practices for network-backed models offering integrated tools, training, and operational support systems.

Indian outbound travellers are shifting focus from conventional sightseeing to festival-based experiences in 2026. This movement reflects a global trend where music events and cultural celebrations drive destination choice and extended stays.

Indian outbound travelers are ditching bucket-list destinations for experience-driven festival tourism. Music festivals, cultural events, and community gatherings now drive travel planning more than landmarks.

Thailand launches flagship food-tourism campaign at Amsterdam's de Bijenkorf (June 3-16, 2026), featuring Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya and immersive culinary experiences targeting European travelers seeking authentic gastronomy tourism.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand launches Amazing Thailand Fest 2026 in Amsterdam, showcasing Thai cuisine and cultural heritage to European markets from June 3-16.

Agoda reports rising demand for trek-focused summer holidays among Indian travellers in 2026. Mountain destinations see unprecedented booking growth as adventure-led travel becomes the priority.

Solo travel interest reaches unprecedented levels in 2026 with 1.6 million monthly searches. Independent travellers now drive premium market growth, spending more per person than group travelers and reshaping the luxury experience landscape.

Gen Z accounts for 53% of spiritual travel bookings across India in 2026, with younger travelers reshaping pilgrimage tourism through digital platforms and last-minute bookings.

India and Southeast Asia emerge as dominant growth engines for Asia Pacific travel retail in 2026, signalling a major market shift beyond China's traditional dominance and reshaping luxury shopping dynamics.

Affluent Indian travelers are revolutionizing travel planning in 2026 by strategically leveraging fintech tools, rewards programs, and optimized payment methods before booking trips, reshaping the entire travel-finance landscape.

A new study reveals how affluent Indian travelers strategically leverage fintech tools and rewards programs to maximize value in 2026, reshaping travel planning priorities around financial optimization.